"These liquor stores are not a business," Emanuel said. "They’re a haven for gang bangers and drug dealers."

On Monday, the city released a list of 37 targeted businesses, ranging from liquor stores and service stations, to a pair of McDonald's and a Subway restaurant. Some had health code violations. Others were alleged to have been selling drug paraphernalia or untaxed cigarettes.

All have been put on notice that they are subject to increased inspections, and that one more violation could land them in court.

"It’s just a really slow process," lamented Ald. Pat Dowell (3rd), who said she welcomed the new program. "There are, in my ward, at least four different businesses we’re targeting."

Many of the businesses targeted by the city took exception with their new found notoriety. At the Citgo convenience store near 59th and Ashland, manager Ali Salem said his establishment did not sell drug paraphernalia, as the city claims. He questioned why the mayor isn’t going after bad customers, not businesses.